Budgeting for baby

February 27, 2018

2 min read

Babies—kids in general—are expensive. With all of the “stuff” you’re going to need for your little one, plus additional baby expenses, you may feel like you’re spending money faster than you’re earning it! Budgeting for a baby is a good step to take whether you’re pregnant, planning, or even if your baby recently arrived.

Predict your spending

Determine how much of your money is required for mandatory expenses, such as rent/mortgage, groceries, utility bills, credit and loan payments, etc.

After everything you need to pay is taken care of, how much money do you have left over? Much of this money may be going to your new baby!

Medical bills from prenatal appointments, delivery and hospital stay—baby will have bills, too!

Purchasing baby gear, setting up nursery, etc.

Examples of ongoing costs:

Diapers/wipes

Formula (if not nursing)

Childcare (if needed)

Toiletries

Medicine

Clothes

Try these tips to help you save more money

Track your expenses. Write down what you’re spending and where you’re spending it to help identify problematic areas as well as opportunities to improve.

Curtail your discretionary spending where you can for a little extra cash. For example, if you buy lunch every day at work, pack your own to save money.

Save where you can. Identify areas where you can save money such as at the grocery store, avoiding impulse buys, or switching to store brand products.

Look for sales, promotions and/or coupons for baby stuff! It is easy to find coupons for diapers and wipes. Many diaper companies have their own rewards programs, too. Check store circulars for the best prices.

Don’t turn down free diapers. Even if they’re not the brand you choose, using those means you have to buy less!

If you are a Health Advocate member with access to our EAP+Work/Life service, call us! We can connect you with financial experts to help you ease debt, build good credit and maintain financial wellness.

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